Part 7/8:
Despite her lack of direct experience within the various agencies under the DHS umbrella, Noem has pointed to her governance experience in handling state-level crises as a qualification for addressing the complexities of national security. Experts suggest she will need to adapt quickly to the intricate challenges posed by an agency that dwarfs her current experience in South Dakota.
As she prepares for her confirmation process, the path before Noem seems to require a balancing act—maintaining her conservative values and connection with Trump’s base while efficiently managing the vast bureaucratic structure of the Department of Homeland Security.